OSU Cooperative Extension has great tips for homeowners to make their house a safe, healthy and stress-free environment. Of course, the information provided is based on reliable research which is proven to be effective and safe.

OSU Cooperative Extension has great tips for homeowners to make their house a safe, healthy and stress-free environment. Of course, the information provided is based on reliable research which is proven to be effective and safe.

Sonya McDaniel is the Family and Consumer Science Extension Educator for Pottawatomie County. Her job is to deliver information over basic home economic skills to the public. She has 15 years of experience in teaching basic family relations, nutrition and meal planning, family budgeting and household management through the OSU system.

She owns a small farming operation with her husband in southern Pottawatomie County where they raise hair sheep, goats and cattle. They are busy keeping up with an on-the-go child, 5 dogs and one giant cat. Sonya definitely understands that running a home and family takes thought, time and money which all seem to be in limited supply!

Oklahoma Cooperative Extension service does not discriminate because of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a Vietnam-era veteran and is an equal opportunity employer.

Keep It SafeOf all nonfatal unintentional injury events, 42 percent occur in the home, translating to nearly 12 million nonfatal home injuries each year. These include falls, burns, poisonings, fires and burns, choking and suffocation, drowning and submersion.
Here are a few simple tips to keep you home safe:

Store poisons properly. Out of reach for small children and NEVER in a food container.

Secure throw rugs with non-slip backing to prevent them from moving or bunching up.

Make sure you remove furniture with sharp edges or hard surfaces in areas where small children play or elderly maneuver in frequently.

Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and have a fire extinguisher on hand.

Keep your home clutter free to help prevent falls, make a clear path for walking and access for emergency responders. There should be a 32 inch clearance entering a room or seating area and 18 inches between seats and coffee tables or ottomans.

By paying attention to some basic steps for home safety you can prevent unintentional injuries for your family. Saving you time healing from an injury and money for treating an injury which could have been prevented.
Information provided by Dr. Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Housing Specialist – 7 Principles of a Healthy Home Workshop Series.